http://media.soundmedicine.org/segments/062313_7.mp3
Last week, regular ‘Sound Medicine’ guest Elizabeth Murphy, DVM, discussed the side effects of allergies in pets, which include itchy skin. According to Dr. Murphy, itching leads to scratching, which can be a vicious cycle for many pets with allergies. In the process of itching and scratching, pets can actually tear off the outer layer of skin, which leads to skin infections. To treat allergies and reduce skin inflammation, veterinarians recommend antihistamines, fatty acid supplements and, in extreme cases, cortisone.